Easy and Delicious Potato Chicken Balls Recipe
I’ll never forget the first time I attempted to make these Potato Chicken Balls. Picture this: a rainy evening, a cozy kitchen glowing warmly as the aroma of something delicious fills the air. I had the great idea to whip these up thinking they would be a hit with my family. Unfortunately, my first attempt involved more potato on the floor than in the bowl. Oops!
But despite the chaos, there’s something incredibly comforting and homey about cooking. This recipe has become a cherished go-to for easy weeknight dinners—one which has survived my kitchen disasters more times than I’d like to count. It’s also perfect for those evenings when you want to enjoy healthy comfort food while reveling in the company of loved ones.
Let’s set the scene! The leaves outside are starting to turn, with a lovely golden hue, signaling that fall is upon us. I mean, is there anything better than a crisp autumn day spent cooking in the kitchen? The comforting sounds of sizzling in the pan and laughter floating through the air can easily turn any mundane day into a cozy memory.
These little balls of joy are not only super satisfying but have a charming, rustic feel to them that makes every bite feel like a warm hug. I didn’t expect them to develop such a reputation in my household—considering just how easy they are to make! They’ve made their way from being a simple recipe idea to a beloved staple for gatherings, family dinners, and even a late-night snack option (yes, I’ve been known to sneak a couple while binge-watching my favorite shows).
Let’s dive into making these delightful Potato Chicken Balls! You won’t regret it.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: With just a handful of ingredients and easy steps, you’ll be amazed at how fast you can get these on your dinner table.
- Kid-Approved: My kiddos love them—like, "please don’t stop making these!" kind of love. They can be a great way to sneak in some protein and vegetables.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch over the weekend and have them ready for quick family meals throughout the week. They reheat like a charm!
- Versatile Flavor: Customize them with different seasonings or dipping sauces. They easily adapt to whatever flavor profile you want!
- Budget-Friendly: All ingredients are generally inexpensive and can often be found in your pantry, making it a win-win in costs and deliciousness.
- Comforting & Satisfying: Take a bite, and you’ll feel the love that went into making them—perfect for those chilly nights when you need a bit of warmth.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
The blend of flavors makes these Potato Chicken Balls truly unique. The combination of creamy mashed potatoes, savory chicken, and melty cheese brings a comforting element to the dish. Plus, you get that satisfying crunch from the breadcrumbs that will have you reaching for more.
And in case you’re wondering about my cooking trick? I like to throw in a bit more garlic powder than called for. It gives that extra pop of flavor that takes these balls to a whole new level. Honestly, who doesn’t love a little extra garlic now and then?
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (I prefer sharp cheddar, but feel free to use what you have)
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or more if you’re feeling adventurous!)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Breadcrumbs for coating
- Oil for frying
Now, let’s break down why these ingredients matter:
Mashed Potatoes: This is the base of our dish. The creaminess adds to the texture, and the potato flavor makes everything feel comforting.
Cooked Chicken: Here’s where the protein comes in. You can use leftover roast chicken, rotisserie chicken, or any kind you have handy—high protein meals are what we’re all about!
Grated Cheese: Because every delicious recipe needs cheese, right? It adds richness and flavor, and it melts beautifully inside each ball.
Green Onions: They add a lovely crunch and freshness. Plus, you get that delightful aroma when they’re cooked.
Garlic Powder: Garlic is a universal love language. Consider yourself warned: you might start adding it to everything.
Salt and Pepper: Seasoning is crucial—don’t skip this step!
Breadcrumbs: These are essential for that golden outer layer. The crunch will make you want to keep snacking on them.
Oil for Frying: Just enough to get that nice crispiness. You could bake them if you’d like a healthier version, but where’s the fun in that?
Oops, just a heads up: when it comes to breadcrumbs, make sure they’re fresh. Old ones can ruin the texture, and nobody wants a sad Chicken Ball.
How to Make It Step-by-Step
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Mix It Up: Grab a large mixing bowl and throw in your 2 cups of mashed potatoes, 1 cup of shredded cooked chicken, 1/2 cup of grated cheese, 1/4 cup of chopped green onions, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and a healthy dose of salt and pepper. Now, this is where the magic happens! Get in there and mix it well. It should eventually become a somewhat sticky mixture. If it feels too wet, a little more mashed potato won’t hurt—trust me!
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Shape the Balls: Time to get hands-on! Grab a handful of the mixture and start rolling it into small balls—about the size of a golf ball. It’s messy, but how fun is that? I mean, give yourself permission to embrace the chaos of cooking!
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Breadcrumb Coating: Once all your balls are shaped and looking like mini potato clouds of happiness, roll each one in breadcrumbs until they’re coated evenly. This step is crucial for that crunch factor. Feel free to spice up your breadcrumbs with some herbs or Parmesan if you want to switch things up.
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Fry Time: Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. You’ll want enough to immerse the potato chicken balls without them touching the bottom. When the oil is nice and hot (you can test this by tossing in a quick piece of bread; if it sizzles, you’re good to go), carefully place the balls in the pan. Fry them until they’re golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side. The sound of sizzling is music to my ears!
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Drain and Serve: Once they’re beautifully browned, remove them from the oil and let them drain on paper towels. They’re best served hot, so it’s a good idea to get everyone gathered around the table while the kitchen is still filled with that mouthwatering aroma.
Doesn’t that sound delightful? I swear they’ll disappear faster than you can say “extra garlic powder!”
Tips for Best Results
- Temperature Check: Make sure the oil is at the right temperature (medium heat!)—too low, and your balls will absorb too much oil. Oops, too high and they’ll burn before heating through.
- Consistent Size: Make sure your balls are similar in size for even cooking. You don’t want some crunchy and some mushy—nobody likes that kind of meal drama.
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
Feeling adventurous? Here are some ideas to customize your Potato Chicken Balls:
- Swap the chicken for turkey if you’re feeling holiday-ish.
- Add some spices like cumin or paprika for an unexpected kick.
- If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try using black beans or lentils as the base instead of chicken.
- Try experimenting with different cheeses! Mozzarella for those who love melting goodness.
- Consider adding some finely diced bell peppers for a pop of color and flavor.
Directions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded chicken, cheese, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into small balls.
- Roll each ball in breadcrumbs until fully coated.
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Fry the potato chicken balls until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Pairing Ideas (Drinks, Sides, etc.)
These delightful Potato Chicken Balls pair wonderfully with a simple salad drizzled with a zesty vinaigrette. Imagine biting into a warm chicken ball while sipping a crisp lemonade or maybe a nice glass of iced tea. And you know what goes perfectly with them? A tantalizing dipping sauce—think ranch, sweet and sour sauce, or even a spicy aioli.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is a rarity in my house!), just throw them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes. The microwave? A quick fix, but it may ruin that lovely crunch.
Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips
You’ve got the option to make these ahead of time! Shape them into balls, place them on a sheet tray, and freeze until solid. After that, transfer them to a freezer bag. This way, you can toss them into the oil straight from the freezer when the craving strikes. Just remember: don’t overcrowd the pan while frying!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing: Gently combine ingredients for the best texture. If you overwork it, they can turn out tough! Nobody wants a chewy potato ball.
- Not Heating the Oil Properly: As mentioned, ensure your oil is hot enough before frying. That’s the key to crispy goodness!
- Too Much Filling: If your potato balls are too large, they’ll take longer to fry and might not cook through properly. Stick to golf ball-sized portions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F, place the coated balls on a greased baking sheet, and bake them for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. -
Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
While I prefer fresh mash for flavor and texture, you can use instant if that’s what you have. Just make sure you don’t make them too watery. -
Are these freezable?
Yes! You can freeze before or after cooking. They’ll last up to three months in the freezer. -
Any good dipping sauce recommendations?
Absolutely! A simple ranch, spicy ketchup, or even a honey mustard are all excellent choices. -
Can I customize the protein?
Definitely! Feel free to use turkey, beef, or even skip meat altogether for a vegetarian version.
Cooking Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- A non-stick frying pan
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet (if you choose to bake)
- Paper towels for draining
Final Thoughts
As I sit here reminiscing about the countless times I’ve made these delightful Potato Chicken Balls, I can’t help but smile. They remind me of family gatherings, cozy nights in, and the joy of sharing food with those I love. Cooking can be a journey, messy as it may be, yet the memories we create around the table are what make it all worthwhile.
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to save it on Pinterest or share it with a friend! Happy cooking!
Potato Chicken Balls
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed potatoes The creaminess adds to the texture.
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded You can use leftover roast or rotisserie chicken.
- 1/2 cup grated cheese Sharp cheddar is preferred, but use what you have.
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped Add crunch and freshness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder Adjust according to taste.
- Salt and pepper to taste Seasoning is crucial.
- as needed Breadcrumbs for coating Ensure they are fresh for best results.
- as needed Oil for frying For crispiness; you can also bake them.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded chicken, cheese, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until all ingredients are well incorporated. The mixture should be somewhat sticky.
- Grab a handful of the mixture and shape it into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
- Roll each ball in breadcrumbs until fully coated.
Cooking
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Make sure there’s enough oil to immerse the balls.
- Carefully place the balls in the pan and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
